Vintage
Levelero's discovery of a unique Tudor Prince ref. 7909, affectionately nicknamed 'Sikorsky,' highlights the thrill of uncovering a watch's hidden history. His meticulous research into the dial's distinctive logo and the engraved case back reveals a fascinating connection to the Sikorsky Aircraft Company and its dedicated employees. This article delves into the personal stories that elevate vintage timepieces beyond mere mechanics.
A couple of years ago, i was very happy to find this Tudor Prince, not an ordinary one, starting from the logo in the dial.
The logo represents the Sikorsky Aircraft Company, founded in 1923 by a Ukranian immigrant in the United States.
Let’s now go to the back case...
FRED J. BOLDUSOFF appears to be the original owner. After a bit of research, wow...the easy point; 25 years as an engineer at Sikorsky.
But it’s not all; Boldusoff was also a bit of an inventor in his own right, with a rather peculiar focus. You know those little dental floss picks you can buy at the drug store? They’re more or less an evolution of a Boldusoff dental floss holder design, which the Connecticut man patented back in June of 1939.
Curious? Funny?
Interesting, as minimum!
Best,
M
The Tudor Prince reference 7909, introduced in 1957, represents an early example of Tudor's strategy to offer watches with Rolex-manufactured components at a more accessible price point. This reference is part of the Oyster Prince line, which established many of the design codes that would become synonymous with Tudor's identity. It features a robust construction designed for everyday wear, reflecting the brand's commitment to durability and reliability. The Prince series, in general, served as a foundation for many subsequent Tudor models, bridging the gap between tool watches and more classic dress pieces.
This particular reference typically features a stainless steel case, often manufactured by Rolex, housing a self-winding mechanical movement. The case diameter is commonly around 34mm, a size prevalent for men's watches during its era. The crystal is usually acrylic, contributing to its vintage aesthetic and period-correct construction. While specific caliber details can vary within the production run, these watches were equipped with reliable movements, often sourced from ETA, modified and finished to Tudor's specifications, providing a dependable power reserve.
For collectors, the reference 7909 is notable for its direct connection to Rolex through its case and crown, a characteristic that appeals to those interested in the historical relationship between the two brands. Its vintage appeal, combined with the quality of its construction, makes it a desirable entry point into vintage Tudor collecting. Variants exist with different dial configurations and hand styles, offering diversity for enthusiasts seeking specific aesthetic preferences within this classic Prince model.
Not well edited but better than with no photos
Love the 3, 6, 9 and, when possible, 12 numeral white dials from Rolex and Tudor. Thanks for sharing!
Anecdotes of watches are what makes this hobby so interesting. My 1955 reference 7934 says hello! HAGWE! Clive
And specially in the FFs, eh Nico?
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